Magnitude 7.7 earthquake rocks Panama, tsunami warning triggered
A tsunami alert was issued after a strong tremor felt across the country.
Quick Look
- A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck south-central Panama near Pitaloza Arriba, prompting evacuations in Panama and a tsunami warning in the Pacific.
- No casualties have been reported at this time.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Panama is located in an active seismic zone. The earthquake was recorded by the USGS as a magnitude of 7.7.
Panama was hit by a 7.7 magnitude earthquake on Friday October 9, according to the American Seismological Agency (USGS). The epicenter is located 10 km from Pitaloza Arriba in the south-central part of the country, in the province of Herrera, according to the USGS.
The quake caused panic in Panama City, with no casualties or damage reported so far. Hundreds of people evacuated the buildings, AFP noted. A tsunami warning has been issued in the eastern Pacific.
Several large aftershocks, including magnitude 6, were reported after the strong quake. Authorities are assessing some damage, especially in the central areas of Herrera, Azuero, Veraguas, Los Santos and other regions. According to preliminary reports, the earthquake was felt throughout Panama. The authorities called on the population to calm down.
Open Questions
- Is there major structural damage?
- What is the true extent of the tsunami impact?
